Police charge 21 in operation targeting warring groups in South Yorkshire town

Police have charged 21 people believed to be involved in warring groups wreaking havoc in a South Yorkshire town.

South Yorkshire Police said they were arrested and charged as part of an ‘ongoing’ operation targeting ‘individuals and groups who believe they are above the law’.

They are accused of offences including violent disorder, grievous bodily harm and possession with intent to supply class A drugs.

Superintendent Natalie Shaw said: “There have been a number of incidents in the town including arson attacks, criminal damage and assaults, all of which we believe have been targeted attacks between two groups and we have arrested and charged a number of the individuals involved.

“We have increased our presence in the area, including extra officers on patrol, mounted officers and various other police resources have been deployed into the town, to provide reassurance to residents and to be able to immediately respond should any incidents occur.

“We are treating all of the incidents and the issues in Mexborough as a priority and we have made numerous arrests over the last few months, with 21 of those charged with a variety of offences including violent disorder, grievous bodily harm and possession with intent to supply class A drugs.

“Nine of those charged have been remanded into prison and removed from the streets, and this concerted effort will continue as we will not tolerate unrest in our town.

“We are working in partnership with other public sector agencies to be able to use all resources available to tackle the issues.

“We also have a dedicated team who are reviewing the recent anti-social behaviour legislation in a bid to apply anti-social behaviour as additional offences wherever possible.

“We are determined to maintain peace in Mexborough and ensure it is a safe place to live, work and visit.”

South Yorkshire Police said members of the public will have seen an increased police presence in the Schofield Street, Oliver Street and Windhill areas.

Anyone with information should call South Yorkshire Police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.